Oöcyte Development in Blattella germanica and Blattella vaga (Blattaria)

Abstract

In these oviparous cockroaches the corpora allata are inhibited while the female carries its oötheca, and consequently the oöcytes fail to mature. The inhibition of the corpora allata is due to nervous stimuli that result from the presence of the egg case in the oöthecal chamber, which are transmitted via the nerve cord to the brain. Inhibition of the corpora allata may cease and oöcyte development resume in virgin females carrying oöthecae that contain undeveloped eggs. It is suggested that activation of the corpora allata in these unmated females is due to adaptation of mechano- or proprioceptors, or adaptation in the central nervous system.